This article discusses 19th century North Carolina psychiatrist Dr. Patrick L. Murphy. His work as superintendent of the Western State Asylum for the Insane in Morganton is presented, with emphasis on this work for patient rights and well-being. Typical mental illness care in asylums during the late 19th century and the associated difficulties are also examined.

This article examines printer Joseph Gales and his impact on the formation of the educational system and its reforms in early 19th century North Carolina. Gales successfully used mass media print to advance his theories and philosophies on the wider educational culture of the United States. Discussion is also given regarding the political environment of North Carolina and those who resisted Gales movement.

This article examines the North Carolina Civil Defense Agency (NCCD) and its actions from October to December 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. During the crisis, the NCCD identified, provided, and supplied fallout shelters to the North Carolina population which validated the state's civil defense program.